(The Habesha) – As the dust swirls above what’s left of the Tayitu Centre for Culture & Education, the esteemed Alemtsehay Wedajo nurtures a dream. A dream to inject life into a 120-year-old historical house that has borne witness to significant chapters of Ethiopia’s past. This house, once proudly standing in front of the St George Cathedral, on the bustling Menelik II roundabout, was once the residence of the former mayor, Bitwoded Hailegiorgis Weldemichael. Today, it patiently awaits the return of its former glory, a restoration effort that is now 95% complete. As the city’s first-ever municipality, the echoes of its past resonate through its crumbling walls. Join us as we trace the journey of the legacy renaissance and explore the lighting installation and other final touches being added to this slice of history.
Overview of the Tayitu Centre for Culture & Education
Tayitu Centre for Culture & Education lies amidst ruins, waiting for its coronation. Once a grand residence right in the heart of the city roundabout Menelik II, the centre holds onto more than a century old tales of the time and people it has seen. In its golden era, it witnessed key events and extraordinary individuals. Today, it stands on the brink of promising resurgence, eagerly being restored to its past glory.
Historical Significance
Connection to Arada Division Court Compound
The Tayitu Centre is not just a building of cultural significance, it’s a silent testament to the political transformation of Addis Ababa. The house resides on the former Arada division court compound. It was built within the premises of what was once an extremely critical administrative division. This connection emphasises the profound link that this house shares with the political history of the city.
First Municipality of Addis Ababa
Before it wore the hat of a cultural centre, the esteemed house of former mayor Bitwoded Hailegiorgis Weldemichael was more than just a residence. It carried the honour of being the first ever municipality of Addis Ababa. The house was indeed a focal point for political activities and holds stories of the city’s administrative infancy.
Role of Alemtsehay Wedajo
Efforts in Restoration
For this glorious past befitting an equally magnificent future, Alemtsehay Wedajo has been integral. As the benefactor of the Tayitu Centre for Culture & Education, Ms. Wedajo has been relentlessly working towards the restoration with great determination, recognising the immense potential of the age-old building to enhance the cultural and educational scene of the city.
Vision for the Centre
Ms. Wedajo’s vision of the centre is of a springboard that propels the cultural resurgence and educational revitalisation of the community. This centre, once fully restored, would amplify the efforts of preserving cultural heritage while also promoting an exchange of knowledge and values.
This two-fold vision reinforces the significance of the Tayitu Centre as an important trajectory in Addis Ababa’s quest to embrace its historical roots whilst striving to educate its citizens and bolster civic engagement. In essence, the custodian’s efforts are about creating a beacon of culture and education amid bustling urbanization.
Restoration of the Historical House
Starting with the current status and indeed the forefront of our cultural narrative is the irrepressible march towards the full restoration of the historical house.
Current Status of Restoration
Percentage Completed
At present, the restoration project of the 120-year-old historical house is 95pc complete. This marks a significant milestone in the journey of the Tayitu Centre for Culture & Education, as it steadily progresses towards reclaiming every bit of the historical aura, thereby restoring the legacy of its past.
Remaining Work
The remaining 5pc of the work predominantly encompasses the installation of lighting and the execution of the final finishing touches. Adhering closely to the original architectural plan and design, utmost care is being taken to ensure the former glory of the house remains untouched.
Architectural and Cultural Value
Treading further into the realm of the house’s architectural prowess and cultural lineage isn’t just a necessity but also an enrichening and informative pathway towards understanding its significance.
Design and Construction
Originally constructed as the residence of the then mayor, Bitwoded Hailegiorgis Weldemichael, the house stands as an emblematic representation of the architectural marvels of its time. Its aesthetic design, intertwined with the traditional flair of the era, offers a visceral travel back in time for the observers and leads to an appreciation of the craftsmanship and dexterity that defined that age.
Historical Events and Figures
Beyond its architectural aesthetics, the house also conveys tales from the epoch of its creation, tales of events that solidified its place in history, and figures that contributed to sharpening its narrative. With its historical lineage linked to the Arada division court compound and its positioning as the city’s first municipality, one cannot separate the narrative of the house from the broader societal landscape that framed its legacy.
From tales of its distinguished residents to unforgettable events, the legacy of the historical house extends the cultural identity of Addis Ababa, holding a mirror to its past while providing a pathway towards its future.
Future Prospects for the Tayitu Centre
The Tayitu Centre for Culture & Education holds a promising future, with aims to impact the local community of Addis Ababa through cultural revitalization and educational opportunities. It also envisions fulfilling community needs through exciting planned initiatives and partnerships.
Impact on Local Community
Cultural Revitalization
Through Alemtsehay Wedajo’s vision, the Tayitu Centre aims to become a beacon of cultural revitalization in Addis Ababa. Known for its historical significance, the Centre is poised to promote a deeper understanding of Ethiopia’s rich culture, its traditions, folk arts, and heritage. By preserving these assets, the Centre hopes to stimulate national pride, inspire future generations, and contribute to Addis Ababa’s vibrant cultural scene.
Educational Opportunities
Linked to its cultural mission, the Tayitu Centre also envisages offering ample educational opportunities. Plans are underway to establish numerous programs focused on arts, literature, and culture, designed for various age groups. By investing in education and knowledge dissemination, the Centre aims to nurture informed citizens who appreciate their cultural roots and contribute to society’s enrichment.
Cultural and Educational Programs
Planned Initiatives
As part of its mission, the Tayitu Centre has disclosed several planned initiatives. These include organizing cultural festivals, art exhibitions, poetry readings, and debates – all centered around Ethiopia’s multifaceted culture and history. Additionally, the Centre plans to hold regular workshops and seminars to promote cultural literacy and enhance community engagement.
Collaborations and Partnerships
To achieve its ambitious objectives, the Tayitu Centre is keen on forging collaborations and partnerships with similar institutions, both locally and internationally. These partnerships will allow the Centre to share cultural experiences, attract diverse audiences, and obtain resources for delivering high-quality programs. The Centre’s future certainly seems bright, as it stands to transform a foundation of rich history into a legacy of knowledge and cultural edification.
